Here’s what others have to say about our work:
“Dr. Riley is a delight to work with! She is extremely punctual, detail-oriented, and always willing to go the extra mile to ensure student understanding of concepts within…The Art of Grant Writing Course” through IAIA’s Continuing Education Program. She is an exceptional Native Female leader and role model. The work she has done and continues to do, for Native Communities, is highly inspirational. I look forward to the possibility of a future collaboration with Dr. Melissa E. Riley!” ~ Manager, Continuing Education at the Institute of American Indian Arts
“Melissa is a joy to work with – she is intelligent, organized, and responsible. She’d be an asset to any team!” ~ Director, Community-Based Research Scholars program and Professorial Lecturer at American University
“Melissa is an excellent instructor that works diligently to assist students in the learning process. Many of her teaching strategies include: collaboration, chat, discussion, reflection and experienced based projects that enable students to apply educational theory to practical application.” ~ Assistant Professor/Director of Education at New Mexico State University
“Melissa has a broad knowledge base and she works very well with tribal leaders, program development groups, service providers, and individual clients. I enjoyed working with her very much and look forward to working with her again in the future.” ~ Assistant Counsel at Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California
“What impresses me most about Melissa is her ability to bring people together for a common cause. She rarely misses an opportunity for collaboration and always finds ways to be inclusive. This requires a demeanor that is open-minded and positive which is one of the reasons Melissa is so successful at project development and implementation.” ~ Executive Director, Dearing House
“I had the honor of working with Melissa on the Faith-Based project at Unified Solutions Tribal Community Development Group, Inc. from 2005-2006. Melissa worked extremely hard to create an original, culturally-competent curriculum for a very complex topic: delivering faith-based services to American Indian/Alaska Native victims and survivors of crime. Melissa is highly intelligent, and is also able to connect with people and cultivate authentic partnerships. I sincerely hope that I have the opportunity to work with her again someday.” ~ Licensed Clinical Social Worker
“Melissa shows her commitment to social justice in all her work – written, oral presentations – and most importantly, her clients’ and students’ successes.” ~NMSU-Alamogordo Outreach & Transfer Coordinator
“Melissa Riley and I were colleagues in the PhD program for curriculum & instruction at New Mexico State University. We worked on several projects together during our coursework so I got to know her both personally and professionally. You will not find someone more committed to the health and well-being of individuals and communities. She is steadfast in her desire to improve the educational future for Native American children and youth and she exudes a calm integrity and resolute nature that are the keys to her ability to get the job done. I would appreciate any opportunity to work with her in the future and would highly recommend her as an educator, counselor, or member of any team.” ~ Strategic Planner for Community Engagement Lecturer III at University of New Mexico
